In the News

Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress outlined his priorities for his first year in office, recapping his first month in office and hitting controversial issues such as immigration, refugees and health care.

The president’s prime-time speech to a joint session Tuesday drew sharp reactions from Colorado’s delegation in Washington. Here’s what they said:

U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, Republican: “Tonight, President Trump outlined his plan to tackle our country’s challenges. I am encouraged that he prioritized strengthening our economy and boosting job creation as well as addressing our broken health care system. Equally as important, the president highlighted the increasingly complex security threats we’re facing around the globe, including Iran and ISIS. After eight years of a failed foreign policy that led to emboldened regimes and instability in the Middle East, it’s critical that the United States stands up to its adversaries and stands by its allies.”

U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, Democrat: “I am pleased the president condemned the recent hate crimes and attacks on Jewish community centers and cemeteries. Such actions have no place in the United States or anywhere else.

“I have long said I will work with anyone to rebuild our infrastructure, fix our broken immigration system, educate our children, protect our environment, reduce our debt and repair our health care system. In the days ahead, I hope the president will start the hard work of building consensus and leave the campaign behind.”

U.S. Rep. Ken Buck, R-Windsor: “I’m eager to work with President Trump to advance conservative policy. Tonight he called for lower taxes for the middle class, a rollback of excessive regulations, a better health care system for Americans and safety and security for our communities. It’s time for America to once again be optimistic.”

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Denver: “For the past month, President Trump and Republican leaders in Congress have been giving us platitudes and promises, but no real plans on anything from health care to immigration to education and beyond.

“Meanwhile, the president’s actions speak louder than any number of grand pronouncements he made this evening. His draft budget is completely out of line with U.S. values and long-term interests. He talks about things that will be wildly expensive but then offers no way to pay for them but vague assurances of tax cuts. These things sound great in a speech, but the reality has set in: As president, you have to put in place workable policies.”

U.S. Rep. Scott Tipton, R-Cortez: “The president’s address was a reminder that America is strong when we stand together and work to achieve common goals. We all want a robust economy, affordable and accessible health care, safe communities and a better future for our kids. Tonight, the president laid out what his governing vision is for America — much of which Republicans in Congress have already started working on as part of our Better Way Agenda.”

U.S. Reps Ed Perlmutter, D-Arvada: “Since taking office, President Trump and his administration have been focused on everything but the economy. Their initial unrealistic and harmful policies have created confusion and uncertainty. Many questions remain as to the direction the President intends to steer our country. …

“I believe we can find common ground with the White House and Congress on issues like infrastructure, tax reform, aerospace, and job creation. But I will continue to hold the administration accountable when their policies harm Colorado’s economy or infringe on the freedoms and values Coloradans cherish.”